Comparing expert priorities for sustainable forest management indicators across developed and developing countries: a Delphi-informed cross-national survey

Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) relies on criteria and indicators (C&I) to maintain a balance between ecological health, economic viability, and social equity. However, global frameworks often overlook regional differences in how experts assess these indicators. This study addresses that gap by comparing the prioritization of SFM indicators by forestry professionals from 23 developed and 23 developing countries. A mixed-methods design was used, combining a systematic literature review, a three-round Delphi survey of 30 international experts, and a quantitative survey of 255 forestry professionals (144 from developing countries and 111 from developed countries). Statistical significance was evaluated using FDR-adjusted p-values (q < 0.05). Mann–Whitney U tests showed significant differences in the prioritization of over half of the labor rights and gender-equity indicators. Notable disparities were also observed for indicators such as indigenous employment rate in the forest sector (p = 0.006), number of visits per person per year (p < 0.001), maintenance of soil and water (p < 0.001), and loss of genetic variation (p = 0.006). Experts from developing countries placed greater emphasis on livelihoods, social justice, and efforts to enhance management capacity, whereas experts from developed countries prioritized labor standards, tourism, and gender equality. Despite these differences, there was general agreement on broader economic and environmental goals. These findings demonstrate that national development context strongly shapes how experts value sustainability indicators. The study underscores the need for context-sensitive C&I frameworks that reflect diverse socio-economic realities and offers practical insights for international policy and the localization of SFM strategies.